Traveling to Cotopaxi Ecuador: 5 Best Things To Do & Where To Stay

Are you planning to visit one of Ecuador’s awe-inspiring landscapes and climb one of the highest volcanoes in the world? Let’s know more about that thrilling destination: Cotopaxi Ecuador.

Ecuador is one of the most impressive countries in South America. From climatic belts to the ocean to snow-capped mountains, it has everything you can desire as a traveler. 

Cotopaxi National Park is a 33,393-hectare (334 square kilometers) area located only about 43 miles (70 km) from the Ecuadorian capital Quito. Visitors will be in awe because of its beautiful forested landscape, challenging trekking trails, diverse wildlife, including condors, gulls, hawks, weasels, and wild horses, and an amazing view of the protected Cotopaxi Volcano.

The active volcano, which shares the park’s name, has an elevation of 20,702 feet (6,310 meters) above sea level, making it the highest volcano from the center of the Earth. There are multiple trek spots within the park, but If you want something more adventurous, go mountaineering and climb to the top of Cotopaxi. 

The glacier on this volcano is also breathtaking, starting just after 4,921 ft (1,500 m). 

There are more experiences to savor in Cotopaxi, and this article lists the best activities and sights you shouldn’t miss. 

Things to Do in Cotopaxi Ecuador

1. Laguna Limpiopungo

Laguna Limpiopungo is located close to the entrance of the park. You can start hiking near the parking lot just behind the lagoon. The 1.5-hour hike has some of the best views, where you can also spot many hummingbirds and Andean gulls. 

The view of the Cotopaxi on the lagoon water makes this place special. However, the weather can sometimes ruin the view and your experience, so check it before leaving.

2. Jose F. Rivas Refuge

If you want to experience the national park from above, head to this hut located 14,764 ft (4,500 m) above sea level. It is also a starting point for mountaineers who want to reach the Cotopaxi summit. 

The hike itself is not that difficult, but because of the altitude, you should have some days of acclimatization before leaving. 

3. Biking

Mountain bike tours are another great way to enjoy the park’s beauty. The trail ends up on an unpaved road with strong breezes after moving through Jose Rivas Refuge. You can also see a lot of bikes on the main road heading toward Laguna Limpiopungo. 

If you are staying in a lodge, check if they provide free bikes. Most high-end places usually have them as a special feature.

4. Hiking

There are many hiking opportunities in Cotopaxi National Park. The most difficult of all is the Cotopaxi Volcano hike. We advise you to hire a tour guide to make the task easier. You can easily hire them by contacting tour providers in Ecuador. 

One of the best Cotopaxi tour providers is Andean Summit Adventure. The agency offers top-quality experience with the help of its special services, which include an expert guide called Jaime. He has been leading tour groups for more than 20 years. He is internationally certified by IFMGA, so you can climb the highest of mountains with him without any fear. 

5. Horseback Riding

Cotopaxi National Park has more than 100 wild horses. If you love horseback riding, you won’t find a better place to satisfy your horse-riding desire. 

Tour providers usually guide you to places with horses available for horseback riding. One of the best ones is Tambopaxi Lodge, which offers tours between 1-8 hours. Make sure to book your tour in advance, as they can get filled quickly, especially during the high season.

How To Get to Cotopaxi Ecuador 

There are 3 ways to get to Cotopaxi: by bus, train, and private transfer. 

By Train

If you want to travel by train, head to Chimbacalle railway station in Quito. The train will take you to Area Nacional de Recreacion El Boliche railway station, located northwest of the national park. 

Trains are mostly run-on weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) all year round. 

In July and August, some trains even leave on Thursdays. The total trip takes around 2.5 hours to reach the destination.

By Bus

Traveling by bus takes around 3.5 hours to reach Cotopaxi through the southern Caspi entrance. You will have to walk your way to the point of interest. Control Caspi is the most used entrance to the park. 

You should be well prepared to walk as relying on lifts would only worsen your trip. 

By Private Transfer

Private transfer is the most convenient way of getting to Cotopaxi. However, all the convenience comes at a high cost. 

There are haciendas (upmarket country farms) that provide accommodation in the park’s northern and southern entrances. These service providers also include transportation from Quito to the national park. 

We highly recommend you take transportation services from Tambopaxi or Chilcabamba Lodge near the park entrance. 

Where To Stay in Cotopaxi Ecuador

Camping 

Camping is an option that most people used to consider in the past, but a volcanic eruption in 2015 closed the doors for camping enthusiasts. As of this year, you can only spend a night at the park by booking a room at one of the lodges available near the entrance gate. 

Lodges

Staying in lodges is the best way to sleep in Cotopaxi National Park. Most lodges are close to hiking spots. Some also provide private transport from Quito to the hotel.

Here is the list of the best places to stay in Cotopaxi.

Hotel Cuello de Luna

Hotel Cuello de Luna has a lot of options for you to choose from. They provide a variety of rooms to match your requirements. The double room is the cheapest, starting at 67 per night before taxes, and includes an exceptional breakfast and other basic amenities.

In addition, you can find a bar, a garden, a restaurant, free bikes, and high-speed WiFi within the hotel.

Tambopaxi Lodge

Tambopaxi Lodge is a red, adobe-looking building with a thatched roof. You will eventually find this place while exploring the national park. However, if you enter the park through Control Norte, you can find the lodge just around the corner. 

The lodge is an excellent place to stay if you are on a budget. They have camps, well-maintained dorms, and a variety of rooms for night stays.

Chilcabamba Lodge

Chilcabamba Lodge is located 3.67 mi (5.9 km) from the entrance of the Cotopaxi National Park. The place is highly recommended for people who want all the luxuries without budget restrictions. 

You will get a healthy breakfast of fruits and cereals in the morning. A restaurant is located within the lodge for you to try regional cuisine. 

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Cotopaxi Ecuador – Safety Concerns 

Cotopaxi is safe to visit. However, volcanic eruptions are the only major issue in this area.

The Cotopaxi volcano is the most active in Ecuador. It has erupted more than 50 times since the 16^th century. The first eruption in this area occurred in 1534. 

Cotopaxi erupted during the war between Spanish conquistadors and locals. The eruption caused everyone to flee from the battleground with fear. 

In recent years, we haven’t seen many eruptions in the area, but the volcano is still active. Many tours get delayed or canceled due to the chance of a possible eruption. Make sure that you check the conditions before planning a trip to this place. 

Another safety issue that most of you should be well aware of is altitude sickness. People leaving to reach the summit should prepare themselves for the climb beforehand, as most volcanoes are over 6,562 feet (2,000 m) high.

Important Tips To Stay Safe In Cotopaxi Ecuador

• Make sure that you pack warm clothes. The temperature decreases as soon as you enter the national park area.
• If planning to climb Cotopaxi Volcano, hire a certified guide and follow safety guidelines provided by experienced tour operators.
• Make sure to climb the mountains with horses if you are prone to altitude sickness.
• Keep valuables secure and be vigilant against pickpocketing or theft, especially in crowded tourist areas.
• Please take at least 1 person with you on hiking as it’s difficult to handle yourself once you are hit by harsh weather and lack of oxygen. 
• Learn about local customs and cultural norms to ensure respectful interactions with the community.
• Consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Cotopaxi Ecuador

Why Is Cotopaxi Famous?

Cotopaxi is famous for its volcanoes. These volcanoes are not only popular for their beauty but also for their volcanic activity.

With the perfect conical shape on top with grasslands at the bottom, Cotopaxi is an ideal place to travel as an adventurer. 

Is Cotopaxi Ecuador Safe?

Cotopaxi is safe to visit. The only major issue is volcanic eruptions. Camping is no longer allowed in the area. Check the chances of eruption and plan your trip accordingly.

Is Cotopaxi The Tallest Volcano In The World?

Yes, Cotopaxi Volcano is the world’s tallest volcano from the center of the Earth. It has a total height of 6,798 ft (2,072 m).

How Long Does It Take To Hike The Cotopaxi?

The ascent can take a day or two. With a 1-day climb, you can go up to the first base camp, Refugio José Ribas, after climbing 15,748 ft (4,800 m) in approximately an hour.

An ascent up to the summit, which can last from 6 to 7 hours, can be done on Day 2. 

Conclusion – Cotopaxi Ecuador

With this information about Cotopaxi, Ecuador, you might be already packing your bags for the awe-inspiring trip of your life. Climb a volcano or two (the province has three!), hike around the lake, marvel at flora and fauna, stop at small rural villages, and more. 

You might even extend your stay with the exciting adventures and sights to see in Cotopaxi.

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